JVP

As teacher, start by simply localizing the internal jugular vein. When learners realize that the undulating movement distinguishes the jugular from the carotid arter, the vein will be quickly located.

We recommend that teams on work rounds or attending rounds try to look at JVP on at least one patient every day, so that, by the end of the month, residents and students will have seen many patients with normal JVP and with abnormal findings.

Practic identifying JVP in patients in whom the central pressure is known, i.e., those with central lines.

Jugular Venous Waveforms

NSR Wave Pattern

As the diagram illustrates, localize the jugular waveform in relation to S1 and to the radial pulse.

Xerox or trace the normal jugular venous pulse from a text example and highlight the area that represents systole. Carry this on a card and compare at the bedside to the patient's waveform (Sapira). For example: